A The 1970s were a ten-year period that began in 1970 and ended in 1979. This was an interesting decade because it was a time of economic disorder, technological development and social change.

B The economy of the 1970s went through several ups and downs. In 1973 and then again in 1979 there were shortages of oil. This meant that the cost of many things increased. But unfortunately, people’s salaries did not increase. Another economic problem was that many people lost their jobs and could not find new ones. These problems happened in North America, Europe and Russia. On the other hand, in some Asian countries, such as Japan, Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore and Taiwan, the economies were good. This was because these countries exported things that other countries bought. This meant that money was coming into these countries and people in these countries had jobs.

1970s Computer

C Several important and interesting technological developments happened during the 1970s. A lot of the technology we use in our daily lives today was invented in the 1970s. Microprocessors, which are the “brains” of modern computers, tablets and smartphones were first invented in the 1970s. The first personal computers were made and sold during this time. People were also able to listen to music anywhere they wanted with the invention of the Walkman in 1978. The first video games were made in the 1970s. In 1971, the first email was written and sent. Later, in 1973, the first call on a mobile phone was made.

D The technology people used to grow food improved during this time. Something called the “green revolution” happened during the 1970s. The green revolution refers to improving farming technology. This meant that farms produced more food. This in turn meant that less people went hungry and more countries were able to produce their own food.

Thatcher

E Society also changed during the 1970s. Women began to have a more important place in public life. Isabel de Peron became the first woman president of Argentina in 1974 and Margaret Thatcher became the United Kingdom’s first female Prime Minister in 1979. Women also started to do more work outside of the home in the 1970s. Another social change was that people began to be more and more interested in protecting the environment.

F When we look back at the 1970s we can see that many interesting things happened at that time. It makes you wonder what people of the future will think of our time.